The Faith, Love and Politics of Raising Boys to Men

Last week challenged me beyond my imagination. The range of feelings experienced were almost beyond my ken. Right now is not the time to tell the story, but I wanted to provide a picture collage that allows you to see maybe some of how I felt. On certain days, some more, some less than others, being a mom of 5 sons is like watching your sons surfing. The surf board symbolizes their independence. The ocean is the life where independence becomes action.

Hoping until your heart feels like it is going to burst – hoping they do not wipe out. And then, praying, standing on Faith, believing in the Hope offered by our Lord Jesus Christ that they know how to handle those wipe outs, whether from the choices they make or the from the mercurial temperament of daily living. Praying they recognize the strength within and use it. Praying their wipe-out leaves no permanent damage, only immeasurable life lessons that give them great dexterity at living life. Praying they have Faith to continue.

And standing excitedly, cheering them on, when they make it. And your heart sighs, a heady mixture of relief, joy and peace – pure relaxed heart, mind and soul. Pure serenity. Until the next wave comes.